UN: Iraqi Children Are in Danger

The Sunni militant onslaught in Iraq has created “an extremely volatile and dangerous situation for children,” a top U.N. official warned Tuesday.

There were “disturbing reports” of the recruitment of child soldiers and other “grave violations” against minors in the conflict, said Leila Zerrougui, the U.N. special representative for children and armed conflict.

The jihadist group leading the Iraqi offensive had since 2011 been on the United Nation’s black list in particular because of its attacks against schools, Zerrougui noted.

Her comments came as she presented to journalists an annual report on her department’s activities.

The report details rights violations against children in 23 conflict situations around the world.